Plant fire at REG in Geismar has been contained

There is a plant fire at the Renewable Energy Group off Highway 30 in Geismar, according to the Ascension Parish Sheriff's Office.

The fire was reported shortly after 6:30 p.m. Thursday. APSO reports that two people were injured. They were transported to a local hospital to be treated for their injuries. The extent of those injuries is not known, but they are believed to be non life-threatening.

The fire has been contained. Deputies want to reassure people that while they may see smoke in the area there is no danger to the public.

APSO says the State Police will take lead on the investigation into what caused the fire. The plant is working to evaluate the damage. Hazmat is at the plant with law enforcement and plant officials. All REG workers have been accounted for.

State Police says the fire is thought to be caused by a leaky valve or pump.

"Right now it looks like, from what we're being told, is that there was a seal in one of the hydraulic pumps that went out and ultimately caused the fire," said Lt. J.B. Slaton with the State Police.

REG released a statement about the fire:

“A fire that occurred shortly after 6 p.m. at the REG Geismar biorefinery has been contained and all employees have been accounted for. Two employees on the scene sustained injuries and were transported to St. Elizabeth's Hospital where they are in both stable condition. They will be transported to Baton Rouge for overnight observation.”

Hwy 30 is now open in both directions.

Rubicon, a plant located near REG, lifted the shelter in-place order for their employees.

According to the company's website, the REG plant acquired the facility in 2014. It produces about 75 million gallons of renewable hydrocarbon diesel and renewable naphtha.